I think this is the NFL’s sleeper roster for 2023. Although I named the rival Saints to my Cinderella team after signing Derek Carr in March, I believe both NFC South teams can win 10+ games this year.
First, I’m a huge Arthur Smith fan. Despite going 7-10 in his first two seasons in the big chair, Smith is a fabulous coach. Year three will indeed be the allure given the growth and upgrading of the squad. Sophomore quarterback Desmond Ridder has a real shot at being solid under Smith’s watchful eye — especially with the NFL experience he’s had since his third-round pick in the 2022 draft.
“This time last year my head was spinning,” Ridder said on Wednesday. “Of course, after a year under his belt and a whole season break, it has become much more pleasant. Now we’re just trying to work out the intricate details, just working out the specifics and knowing the exact reasons why everything is going on.”
One thing that certainly helps: the inclusion of Bijan Robinson, number 8 overall. That’s a monster all-purpose weapon that joins Ridder in the backcourt – and joins a playmaker group that already includes Drake London, Cordarrelle Patterson and Kyle Pitts. With a strong squad up front, the Smith’s Falcons should deliver fireworks in 2023. Meanwhile, defense — Atlanta’s bogeyman for years — has received a boost at every level of free agency. Calais Campbell, David Onyemata and Bud Dupree make significant upgrades up front, and the Falcons have also added an up-and-coming linebacker (Kaden Elliss) and one of the game’s best safeties (Jessie Bates).
In an NFC South in flux, the Falcons are poised to step up.